Contextualization
Language functions are, essentially, the distinct purposes and uses that language can have in different communication contexts. Linguists and scholars of the Portuguese language have classified these uses into six main functions: referential, emotive, conative, phatic, metalinguistic, and poetic. Each of these functions is based on the emphasis given to a specific element of communication: the sender, the receiver, the message, the code, the channel, and the context.
For example, the referential function is characterized by the use of language to refer to, to talk about something specific (the context). The emotive function, on the other hand, is marked by the expression of the sender's feelings and emotions. In contrast, the conative function seeks to influence the receiver, often through commands or instructions.
Our ability to communicate ideas, feelings, information, and much more depends directly on our understanding and skillful use of these language functions.
We live in a world flooded with communication, from simple conversations among friends to global news and political debates. In each instance of communication, we are using language in a certain way, depending on our intentions, the context, and the relationship between the sender and the receiver. Therefore, understanding the functions of language is essential to understand how communication works and how we can use it effectively and responsibly.
For example, a politician during an election campaign often uses the conative function of language, seeking to influence and persuade voters. Journalists, on the other hand, generally rely on the referential function, aiming to provide factual and accurate information. When interpreting poems, the poetic function is usually the most relevant. Therefore, understanding the functions of language can help us be more astute consumers of media, express our own ideas more effectively, and better appreciate the beauty and depth of language in the arts.
To delve further into the topic, we suggest reading the following materials:
- 'Language Functions' on the online platform Brasil Escola.
- 'Language Functions: what they are, types, examples' on Toda Matéria.
- 'Language Functions: everything you need to know!' on Mundo Educação.
These resources offer good explanations about each language function and provide examples to help consolidate your understanding.
Practical Activity: 'The Scene of Language Functions'
Project Objective
The activity consists of developing a short play that can incorporate all six language functions. This play should be written, staged, and recorded on video by the students. The video should also include explanatory moments where the students highlight and comment on which language functions are being demonstrated in each scene.
Detailed Project Description
The students should divide into groups of 3 to 5 people. Initially, they must study the language functions in detail, reading the suggested materials and researching on their own. After fully understanding the concept, they should start brainstorming the play.
The play must be an original script created by the group with the intention of demonstrating all language functions. The final video duration should be 10 to 15 minutes.
The students will need to act in the play, so they will need a suitable place for filming and clothes that suit the characters. The script should be well rehearsed to ensure a good presentation.
At the end of the play, the students will have to produce an explanatory section where they should indicate where and how each language function was used in the play.
Required Materials
- Study material on language functions.
- Paper and pen to write the script.
- Camera or smartphone for recording the play.
- Clothes and accessories for the characters.
- Suitable space for acting and recording.
Activity Steps
- Study in-depth the language functions based on the suggested materials and own research.
- Brainstorming for the creation of the play script.
- Formal writing of the script, including all language functions.
- Rehearsal of the play.
- Recording of the play and the explanatory section.
- Video editing, if necessary.
- Writing the project report containing the topics: Introduction, Development, Conclusions, and Bibliography.
Project Deliverables
The final project delivery has two parts: the recorded play and the written report.
1. Recorded play
The play must be recorded on video, with good image and sound quality. In addition to the play itself, the video should include an introduction, where the students briefly present the play and its objectives, and an explanatory section at the end, where they highlight and comment on which language functions were demonstrated in each scene.
2. Written report
After the conclusion of the play, the students must write a report following the guidelines below:
Introduction:
Contextualize the theme of language functions, explaining its relevance and real-world application, and present the project's objective.
Development:
Explain the theories behind language functions. Detail the activity carried out, including the methodology used to create and execute the play. Present and discuss the results obtained, explaining how the language functions were incorporated into the play.
Conclusions:
Summarize the main points of the work, discussing the learnings obtained and the conclusions drawn about the application and understanding of language functions. It is important for the students to reflect on how this activity has changed or expanded their perception of language use.
Bibliography:
Include all sources of information that were used to elaborate the project, such as books, websites, videos, etc.
